If there's ever a time you can't find me, don't worry. I'm doing alright. I'm probably hiding out somewhere counting my blessings, mumbling something about sunshine, wondering how much love I can live in a lifetime.

– Shihan the Poet

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

I’ve always been taught that a writer must use words to appeal to every sense of the reader in order to allow them the space to create a reality in their own minds. While I respect the imaginative freedom of personal interpretation to a writer’s words, my approach to art utilizes multilayered mediums to not only provide more pieces to constructing an experience, but to also prevent the mind from creating a story that simply is not there. This is not to say that my approach is meant to be limiting, but rather that my work is deeply committed to presenting the rawest account of my experience and challenge the reader to determine their own truth without ignoring the possible discomforts they might not want to confront. In other words, I don’t want the reader to ignore the starving baby in the corner if there was in fact a starving baby in the corner.

But my intention is not to shove my beliefs down the throats of others, but rather it is a humble plea for people to simply consider these uncomfortable truths I’ve encountered. When someone has read or seen my work and questioned their beliefs as a result, I feel I have accomplished this goal. And likewise, the thoughts and comments of others have forced me to second-guess my own interpretations. None of us are exempt from the possibility of being wrong, the artist included. I believe that is the beauty of art: it inspires us to explore the genesis of our beliefs and question the current state of our lives. It gives us the courage to create against our conditioning.

Thursday, October 14, 2010

People will be angry when you don't conform. They will be angry because your non-conformity reminds them of their fear. It reminds them of that one memory that continually haunts them; that pivotal point where they traded their individuality for the safety of the crowd. And since that day they have felt a subtle restraint. A consented imprisonment. Your brash and unwavering freedom will drive them mad with rage. It will remind them how they once were and how they are now too afraid to be. The more you grow indifferent to the opinions of the world, the more they will want to destroy you. Indifference does not belong in a comfortable world. But keep steadfast to the beat of your own drum. Structured dances do not match with awkward rhythms and taking the road less traveled always pays off in the end.